Workers of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) have commenced an indefinite strike action over the federal government’s alleged failure to fulfill agreements reached with the agency’s staff union, crippling operations at the nation’s primary weather forecasting and climate monitoring institution.
The industrial action, which began on Monday, was declared by the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE), the umbrella body representing NiMet workers. The union cited non-implementation of key welfare and financial agreements as the reason for the walkout.
According to the union, several memoranda of understanding signed with the government since 2022 have been neglected, leaving workers frustrated and demoralized.
“This strike became inevitable after repeated appeals, correspondences, and meetings yielded no result. We are left with no other option than to withdraw our services indefinitely,” the union stated in a communique issued in Abuja.
Demands of the Workers
At the heart of the workers’ grievances are issues related to promotion arrears, non-payment of peculiarity allowances, outstanding staff claims, and the delayed implementation of a new salary structure approved for NiMet by the Salaries and Wages Commission.
The union claims that while other sister agencies in the aviation sector have already implemented similar wage structures, NiMet staff have been left behind, despite facing increasingly demanding work conditions and contributing critically to aviation safety and climate monitoring.
“We are the backbone of flight operations, agriculture advisories, and national disaster preparedness. Yet our welfare is ignored. This is unacceptable,” said Comrade Sani Maikudi, Chairman of the NiMet branch of AUPCTRE.
The workers also raised concerns over poor working conditions in some regional offices, obsolete equipment, and lack of training opportunities, which they say have reduced operational efficiency and staff morale.
Impact of the Strike
The strike has already begun to affect flight operations, as NiMet provides vital weather information to pilots, airlines, and airport authorities. According to aviation sources, delays and cancellations may increase if the strike persists, as the agency’s data is crucial for flight safety and scheduling.
In addition to aviation, the strike threatens to disrupt early warning systems for floods and other climate-related disasters — an especially concerning development as the country enters its rainy season.
Farmers and agricultural stakeholders also depend on NiMet’s seasonal climate predictions for planning crop cycles and mitigating losses due to extreme weather.
“This strike couldn’t have come at a worse time. With climate change intensifying, we need accurate and timely forecasts more than ever,” said Dr. Halima Lawal, an environmental scientist and disaster risk consultant based in Kaduna.
Government Response
In response to the strike, officials from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development have reportedly invited union leaders for an emergency meeting. The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Meribole, appealed to the workers to return to work while negotiations continue, assuring them that their concerns would be addressed.
“We acknowledge the critical role NiMet plays in national development. The ministry is committed to ensuring that all outstanding issues are resolved as quickly as possible,” Meribole said.
However, the union has insisted that the strike will continue until concrete steps are taken, including a firm timeline for implementing the pending agreements and immediate payment of all outstanding benefits.
Public and Stakeholder Reactions
The development has drawn mixed reactions from the public and stakeholders in the aviation and agricultural sectors. While many sympathize with the striking workers, there are concerns about the wider impact of the industrial action on national safety and productivity.
Aviation expert and former NCAA Director, Captain Dele Olumide, said, “We must avoid jeopardizing flight safety. I urge the government to act swiftly and find a solution. Weather data is not optional — it’s a necessity.”
Meanwhile, civil society groups have called for transparency and accountability in addressing workers’ demands, urging the government to treat the situation as a matter of urgency.
Looking Ahead
As the strike enters its early days, all eyes are now on the outcome of the anticipated negotiations between the union and government representatives. For many NiMet employees, the industrial action is about more than wages — it’s a demand for dignity, recognition, and a working environment that matches the critical role they play in national development.
“We want to go back to work. But we want to go back with our heads held high, knowing that our service is valued and respected,” said Comrade Maikudi.
For now, operations at NiMet offices across the country remain shut, and the forecast — at least for Nigeria’s weather agency — remains uncertain.
